Brunei Darussalam Advances Educational Collaboration at SEAMEO INNOTECH Governing Board Meeting
Her Excellency Datin Seri Setia Dr. Hajah Romaizah Md Salleh (middle) in a group photo prior to the 68th GBM Opening Ceremony.
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN — The Minister of Education of Brunei Darussalam, Her Excellency Datin Seri Setia Dr. Hajah Romaizah Md Salleh, inaugurated the 68th Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization Regional Centre for Educational Innovation and Technology (SEAMEO INNOTECH) Governing Board Meeting (GBM) on October 23-24, 2024, at the Rizqun International Hotel. This marked the first time in many years that a Minister of Education graced the Governing Board Meeting, emphasizing Brunei’s commitment to regional cooperation and educational innovation. Notably, Dr. Romaizah is also the first female Minister of Education of Brunei Darussalam.
Dr. Romaizah delivers her keynote address at the 68th Governing Board Meeting Opening Ceremony.
In her keynote address, Dr. Romaizah acknowledged the challenges posed by digital transformation and stressed the importance of leveraging technology to enhance learning. “Empowering education through digital innovation is not just about adopting new technologies. It is about reimagining the way we teach and learn,” she said. Addressing challenges such as the digital divide and cybersecurity, she emphasized, “Bridging this digital divide is crucial to ensure that no student is left behind,” urging member countries to collaborate in building a resilient and inclusive educational system.
SEAMEO INNOTECH Centre Deputy Director Kochakorn-Khattapan Acidre represents Dr. Leonor Magtolis-Briones during the welcome remarks of the 68th GBM.
In her welcome remarks, Deputy Director Kochakorn Khattapan-Acidre conveyed the heartfelt gratitude of SEAMEO INNOTECH Centre Director Dr. Leonor Magtolis Briones. Dr. Briones stated, “Your hospitality and welcome reception embody the spirit of cooperation and mutual support that SEAMEO INNOTECH values as we work together to enhance education across Southeast Asia.”
On behalf of SEAMEO Secretariat, Mr. Emiljohn Sentillas expresses appreciation for Brunei Darussalam.
Mr. Emiljohn Sentillas, representing the SEAMEO Secretariat, expressed appreciation for Brunei’s hospitality and highlighted the significance of the meeting in reflecting on achievements and shaping future strategies. He remarked, “The Governing Board Meeting is a significant event for our SEAMEO Centres. It serves as a valuable space for reflection on our achievements, discussion on ongoing program progress, and exploration of future initiatives.”
Ms. Jennifer Wong Yok Ting delivers her message of solidarity and support.
Ms. Jennifer Wong Yok Ting, Chair of the Governing Board, expressed solidarity and thanked SEAMEO INNOTECH for providing Brunei with the opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to international cooperation. “This gathering is not only an important platform for discussing the future of education in our region, but also a testament to the strength of our shared commitment to collaboration and progress,” she stated.
The meeting also focused on key initiatives, including the presentation of the SEAMEO INNOTECH 11th Five-Year Development Plan and discussions on the upcoming 16th International Conference themed “Fostering the I in AI: A Multi-Sectoral Synergy for Human-Centered Education.” Additionally, the SEAMEO INNOTECH Youth Development Strategy was discussed, aiming to equip young people with essential skills for a digital future.
Brunei Darussalam has consistently championed SEAMEO’s mission, contributing significantly to initiatives aimed at improving educational quality across the region. This year’s Governing Board Meeting centered on pivotal discussions regarding SEAMEO INNOTECH’s future directions, including reports on the Centre’s accomplishments, updates on educational programs, and progress in areas such as knowledge management, research, and capacity building.
The unwavering support of Brunei Darussalam, under the leadership of Yang Berhormat Datin Seri Setia Dr. Hajah Romaizah, alongside the collaborative efforts of SEAMEO member countries, exemplifies the strength of regional cooperation in education. The discussions and outcomes from this meeting will help shape strategic educational initiatives and support the goal of creating innovative and inclusive learning environments across Southeast Asia.
For more information about SEAMEO INNOTECH’s 68th Governing Board Meeting and its agenda, please visit SEAMEO INNOTECH Website: www.seameo-innotech.org and the meeting site: https://sites.google.com/view/68thgbm .
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About SEAMEO INNOTECH
SEAMEO INNOTECH, or the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization Regional Centre for Educational Innovation and Technology, is dedicated to identifying and addressing common and unique education challenges in Southeast Asia. It develops innovative, technology-based solutions to improve education quality and accessibility in the region.
